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Chief Meteorologist Tim Deegan to retire after 42 years at First Coast News

Deegan joined First Coast News in 1982 as a meteorologist and has been broadcasting weather to viewers in the region ever since.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — After 42 years at First Coast News, chief meteorologist Tim Deegan announces his retirement today. Deegan will work with the Most Accurate Weather team over the next few months to find his successor. His last day on-air will be May 30, 2025.

Deegan joined First Coast News in 1982 as a meteorologist and has been broadcasting weather to viewers in the region ever since. 

Credit: First Coast News

Prior to joining First Coast News, he worked at KRIS in Corpus Christi, Texas and KBTX in Bryan, Texas. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Deegan is a certified member of the American Meteorological Society.

In 2005, Deegan became one of the first 100 people to become an AMS Certified Broadcaster. Under his leadership, the First Coast News weather team has been certified by WeatheRate as ‘most accurate’ for five consecutive years from 2019 -2024. 

“For generations, Tim has been a trusted voice for First Coast families, known for his precision in forecasting major storms as well as daily weather,” said First Coast News president and general manager, Tim Thomas. “I'm grateful for Tim's many years of dedicated service to our station. His expertise and experience will be invaluable in helping to select the next Chief Meteorologist, ensuring First Coast News continues delivering the most accurate forecasts."

The so-called “Dean of Forecasting,” Deegan is known for his dedication to forecasting, his interest in teaching young people about meteorology and his community involvement. An avid surfer, Deegan spends a lot of time in or around the ocean, which has allowed him to bring a unique perspective to his weather reports and stories on climate change. 

“I have always taken my forecasting seriously,” said Deegan. “Friends have joked that sometimes I take it ‘too seriously,’ but weather forecasts often play a big role in critical decisions. My forecasts help our viewers schedule everything from weddings to games to marathons. Every forecast, every day, they all matter to me.”

Married to Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, the couple share three children and four grandchildren. They spend much of their free time collaborating on the Donna Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide hope, support, and financial relief for those living with breast cancer.

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